Connor McDavid (Image Via Twitter) With Connor McDavid closing in on the last year of his current contract, the Edmonton Oilers will face one of the most defining moments in their history. The signing of a $112 million contract for his teammate, Leon Draisaitl, earlier this summer only fuels the speculation that McDavid’s contract would follow the same trajectory. In addition, comments from Jeff Jackson, the CEO of the Oilers, in which he stated that Draisaitl’s contract, while respected, would not be the standard for McDavid’s extension talks, also add more to the teasing.
Connor McDavid, balancing personal value and team success in contract plans
On “Oilers Now,” Jeff Jackson brought up McDavid’s appreciation of Draisaitl and the team’s bigger picture of the organization. While more certainly comes into play with Draisaitl’s record-breaking deal, McDavid’s decisions will certainly be about much more than money. While discussing McDavid, Jackson talked about how humble, thoughtful, and purposeful he is, especially in understanding the need for roster agility.Rather than focusing on the most lucrative deal, McDavid is aiming for an agreement that offers reasonable pay but also allows the Oilers to retain other key players. His conduct mirrors his guiding principles as a leader: McDavid, like many others in leadership roles, seeks to maximize team victories and ensure the organization remains competitive in the long run instead of chasing personal wins or financial milestones.
Edmonton Oilers expect Connor McDavid to shape future NHL salary standards
Having signed an eight-year, $100 million deal in 2017, McDavid’s contract will expire after the 2025-26 season. Given the increase in the NHL salary cap and the prospect of McDavid’s next statistically dominant contract, it will likely set the remuneration record. Last season, he achieved 100 points in 67 games and added 33 more in the playoffs, winning the 2024 Conn Smythe Trophy. In August at Canada’s Olympic camp, McDavid stated that he is not hastening the extension’s conclusion but is still devoted to Edmonton. His intentions are unmistakable: Winning the Stanley Cup for the Oilers, with the additional aspiration of Olympic gold. To the Oilers, it will be vital to make their captain feel appreciated and supported to successfully sign what will be one of the most important contracts for both the franchise and the NHL.Also Read: Dennis Hildeby’s contract extension sparks strong reaction from Maple Leafs fansFollowing Leon Draisaitl’s recent contract negotiations, McDavid has publicly shut down any rumors of a potential holdout. While his contract is unrelated to Draisaitl’s, it is poised to become a defining contract in hockey.